Overall, Protective Insurance offers the best life insurance in Maryland and across the country, earning a MoneyGeek score of 4.7 out of 5 for customer service, affordability, and coverage options. We also recommend Guardian Life, Lincoln Financial and Prudential as some of the best affordable alternatives.
Best Life Insurance Companies in Maryland (2025)
MoneyGeek scored the best life insurance companies in Maryland based on thousands of quotes and reviews to help you find your ideal policy.
Discover affordable life insurance in Maryland below.

Updated: October 27, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Life insurance rates don't change by state, but in Maryland, the best providers are Protective Insurance, Guardian Life, Lincoln Financial and Prudential.
Lincoln Financial offers the cheapest life insurance in Maryland and nationwide, with monthly rates averaging $35 (men) and $30 (women) for a $500,000 policy.
The best life insurance company in Maryland may vary depending on the type of life insurance you choose. Legal & General is the best for term, while Pacific Life ranks first for no-exam term policies. For permanent life insurance, North American, Ethos and Mutual of Omaha stand out.
To get the best life insurance in Maryland, we recommend deciding on coverage beforehand, researching costs and companies, and comparing plenty of providers.
Ensure you are getting the best rate for your insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.
Best Life Insurance Providers in Maryland
Overall | Protective Insurance | 4.7 | $44 (men) $37 (women) | $532 (men) $443 (women) |
Customer Experience | Guardian Life | 4.6 | $51 (men) $40 (women) | $612 (men) $480 (women) |
Affordability | Lincoln Financial | 4.5 | $35 (men) $30 (women) | $417 (men) $359 (women) |
Coverage Options | Prudential | 4.1 | $61 (men) $48 (women) | $735 (men) $578 (women) |
Rates are based on average quotes for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with a $500,000 20-year term policy. These are estimates based on MoneyGeek's analysis and may not reflect your actual premium. Actual rates vary based on health, lifestyle, and other underwriting factors. Contact insurers directly for personalized quotes.
Best Overall: Protective

Protective
Average Monthly Cost
$44 (men); $37 (women)Based on a 20-year term policy with $500,000 coverage amount for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with average weight and health ratings.Average Annual Cost
$532 (men); $443 (women)Based on a 20-year term policy with $500,000 coverage amount for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with average weight and health ratings.
- pros
Ages 20-80 coverage availability
Comprehensive options, including IUL policies
High coverage limits over $10 million
consMedical exams required for all applicants
Minimum age 20 for term coverage
Protective Insurance is the top-rated life insurance company in Maryland, with its diverse range of products and robust financial strength. The insurer accommodates broad age ranges with term policies spanning ages 20 through 80.
Protective's portfolio extends from straightforward term coverage to sophisticated indexed universal life products, with policy limits reaching beyond $10 million for affluent clients. The child term rider stands out by converting to five times its original value at age 25, surpassing industry standards. This combination of flexible underwriting, extensive coverage options, and innovative rider benefits positions Protective as Maryland's premier life insurance choice.
- J.D. Power Rating: 653 (9th place)
- A.M. Best Rating: A+
- BBB Rating: N/A
- Average NAIC Complaint Index: N/A
- Term
- Whole
- Universal
- IUL
- No-Exam
Best Customer Experience: Guardian Life

Guardian Life
Average Monthly Cost
$51 (men); $40 (women)Based on a 20-year term policy with $500,000 coverage amount for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with average weight and health ratings.Average Annual Cost
$612 (men); $480 (women)Based on a 20-year term policy with $500,000 coverage amount for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with average weight and health ratings.
- pros
Second-place in J.D. Power customer satisfaction ranking
A++ A.M. Best financial strength rating
Low complaint index of 0.08
consNo indexed universal life products available
Medical exams mandatory for all policies
Traditional policy types only
Guardian Life dominates customer experience rankings in Maryland, securing second place in J.D. Power's customer satisfaction survey. The company maintains an AM Best's highest A++ rating, demonstrating solid financial stability.
Guardian specializes in straightforward life insurance solutions through term, whole and universal life policies, avoiding complex product variations. Its signature Charitable Benefit Rider automatically increases your death benefit by 1% (capped at $100,000) and directs that amount to your selected charity without additional premiums. Coverage extends up to $5 million.
- J.D. Power Rating: 685 (2nd place)
- A.M. Best Rating: A++
- BBB Rating: A+
- Average NAIC Complaint Index: 0.08
- Term
- Whole
- Universal
- Variable Universal
Best for Affordability: Lincoln Financial

Lincoln Financial
Average Monthly Cost
$35 (men); $30 (women)Based on a 20-year term policy with $500,000 coverage amount for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with average weight and health ratings.Average Annual Cost
$417 (men); $359 (women)Based on a 20-year term policy with $500,000 coverage amount for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with average weight and health ratings.
- pros
Lowest average monthly costs
Child rider available
Coverage amounts up to $5 million with exam
consFewer rider options compared to larger insurers
No permanent life insurance product lineup
Lincoln Financial offers the most affordable life insurance in Maryland. A 20-year, $500,000 term policy costs approximately $35 monthly for men and $30 for women. The insurer offers term lengths spanning 10 to 30 years, accommodating different budget needs and life stages.
Death benefits reach $5 million with medical underwriting or $1 million for simplified issue policies. Parents appreciate the optional child rider, which provides $15,000 coverage per child until age 25 or when the policyholder turns 65. Lincoln Financial's competitive pricing makes comprehensive financial protection accessible for Maryland families.
- J.D. Power Rating: 652 (10th place)
- A.M. Best Rating: A
- BBB Rating: A+
- Average NAIC Complaint Index: N/A
- Term
- Universal
- No-Exam
Best Coverage Options: Prudential

Prudential
Average Monthly Cost
$61 (men); $48 (women)Based on a 20-year term policy with $500,000 coverage amount for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with average weight and health ratings.Average Annual Cost
$735 (men); $578 (women)Based on a 20-year term policy with $500,000 coverage amount for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with average weight and health ratings.
- pros
Term coverage amounts exceed $10 million
No-exam coverage up to $3 million available
Living Needs Benefit included at no cost
consMedical exams required for most applicants
High customer complaint index
Prudential is our pick for best coverage options in Maryland through its exceptional policy limits and flexible underwriting. The insurer provides term life coverage exceeding $10 million in face value, accommodating substantial financial needs. Healthy applicants ages 18-50 can secure up to $3 million without medical examinations.
The company's term policies span 10, 15, 20 and 30 years, with applications accepted through age 75. Conversion features allow transformation to permanent coverage without additional medical requirements until age 65, provided five years have elapsed. Prudential's rider selection includes premium waivers, accidental death benefits and children's protection. The Living Needs Benefit stands out as signature coverage, enabling early death benefit access during qualifying circumstances without extra cost.
- J.D. Power Rating: 626 (17th place)
- A.M. Best Rating: A+
- BBB Rating: A+
- Average NAIC Complaint Index: 10.63
- Term
- Universal
- IUL
- Variable Universal
- No-Exam
Best Life Insurance in Maryland by Policy Type
While we've identified the top life insurance company for most, your ideal match might differ based on the type of life insurance. Below, we break down the best options for various common profiles.
Whole and Universal | North American | 5 | Whole: $691 (men) $602 (women) Universal: $295 (men) $251 (women) | Whole: $8,287 (men) $7,221 (women) Universal: $3,535 (men) $3,016 (women) |
Indexed Universal | Ethos | 5 | $328 (men) $275 (women) | $3,935 (men) $3,297 (women) |
Term | Legal & General | 4.7 | $44 (men) $35 (women) | $523 (men) $415 (women) |
Guaranteed Acceptance | Mutual of Omaha | 4.7 | $40 (men) $30 (women) | $482 (men) $365 (women) |
No-Exam | Pacific Life | 4.5 | $47 (men) $39 (women) | $566 (men) $464 (women) |
Rates are estimates based on MoneyGeek's analysis and may not reflect your actual premium. Individual rates vary based on health, lifestyle, and other underwriting factors. Contact insurers directly for personalized quotes.
Best Whole and Universal: North American

North American
Average Monthly Cost
Whole: $691 (men); $602 (women) Universal: $295 (men); $251 (women)Based on average quotes for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with $500,000 coverage amount.Average Annual Cost
Whole: $8,287 (men); $7,221 (women) Universal: $3,535 (men); $3,016 (women)Based on average quotes for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with $500,000 coverage amount.
- pros
Strong whole and universal life policy selection
Competitive permanent life insurance rates
Coverage amounts up to $10 million available
Excellent financial strength ratings (A+ AM Best)
consMedical underwriting required for all policies
Term life age restrictions (18-60 only)
Basic features without unique benefits
North American earns top ranking for whole and universal life insurance in Maryland through its robust permanent coverage portfolio and exceptional financial strength. The company's whole life policies provide guaranteed cash accumulation with predictable growth, while universal options offer premium flexibility and adjustable death benefits to match changing needs.
North American's A+ ratings from both A.M. Best and the Better Business Bureau demonstrate consistent claims-paying ability and customer service excellence across decades of operation.
- J.D. Power Rating: N/A
- A.M. Best Rating: A+
- BBB Rating: A+
- Average NAIC Complaint Index: N/A
- Whole
- Universal
- Indexed Universal
- Term
Best Indexed Universal: Ethos

Ethos
Average Monthly Cost
$328 (men); $275 (women)Based on average quotes for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with $500,000 coverage amount.Average Annual Cost
$3,935 (men); $3,297 (women)Based on average quotes for adult (ages 30-49) nonsmokers with $500,000 coverage amount.
- pros
Instant underwriting reduces waiting times
Living benefit riders cost nothing extra
consCoverage depends on third-party insurance partners
New York residents can't purchase coverage
Ethos is the best indexed universal life insurance provider in Maryland. The platform provides multiple index options, including S&P 500, Russell 2000 and NASDAQ-100 strategies, alongside a stable fixed account alternative. You'll get living benefit protection for terminal, chronic and critical illnesses without paying additional premiums. The company offers its IUL policies through its partnership with Ameritas.
Ethos streamlines the application process using data-driven underwriting technology that eliminates lengthy medical exams for many applicants. The company's commitment to transparent index crediting terms and user-friendly digital tools makes IUL coverage accessible and straightforward for Maryland residents.
- J.D. Power Rating: N/A
- A.M. Best Rating: A+ (partner carriers)
- BBB Rating: A+
- Average NAIC Complaint Index: N/A
- Term
- Indexed Universal
- No-Exam
Best Term: Legal & General

Legal & General
Average Monthly Cost
$44 (men); $35 (women)Based on average quotes for an adult (ages 30-49) nonsmoker with a 20-year term policy and $500,000 coverage amount.Average Annual Cost
$523 (men); $415 (women)Based on average quotes for an adult (ages 30-49) nonsmoker with a 20-year term policy and $500,000 coverage amount.
- pros
Terminal illness benefits automatically included
Conversion allowed until age 70
Stacking rider adds coverage flexibility
Coverage amount up to $10 million
consMedical examination usually required for approval
Legal & General is the best term life insurance company in Maryland. The company automatically includes accelerated death benefits for terminal illness without additional premiums, providing crucial financial support during difficult times.
Its extended conversion window lasting until age 70 gives exceptional flexibility to adjust coverage as circumstances change. The innovative stacking rider allows customers to layer multiple term periods (10, 15, or 20 years) within a single policy, eliminating the need for separate applications when life circumstances evolve. This combination of automatic benefits and adaptable coverage structures makes Legal & General ideal for families seeking both immediate financial and long-term planning options.
- J.D. Power Rating: N/A
- A.M. Best Rating: A
- BBB Rating: N/A
- Average NAIC Complaint Index: 0.35
- Term
- Universal
- IUL
- Variable Universal
Best Guaranteed Acceptance: Mutual of Omaha

Mutual of Omaha
Average Monthly Cost
$40 (men); $30 (women)Based on average quotes for 50-year-old nonsmokers with $10,000 coverage amount.Average Annual Cost
$482 (men); $365 (women)Based on average quotes for 50-year-old nonsmokers with $10,000 coverage amount.
- pros
A+ A.M. Best rating demonstrates financial stability
Accepts applicants between ages 45-85
Builds cash value for policy loans
consMaximum coverage limited to $25,000
No 24/7 live chat support available
Mutual of Omaha ranks first for guaranteed acceptance life insurance in Maryland. The company accepts applicants from 45 to 85 years old, offering whole life policies from $2,000 to $25,000. These policies accumulate cash value that you can access through loans, providing financial flexibility beyond the death benefit.
The insurer operates with a two-year waiting period for natural death claims, returning premiums plus 10% during this timeframe. Accidental deaths receive immediate full benefit payouts.
- J.D. Power Rating: 659 (6th place)
- A.M. Best Rating: A+
- BBB Rating: A+
- Average NAIC Complaint Index: 0.51
- Guaranteed Acceptance Whole
- Term
- Whole
- Universal
- IUL
Best No-Exam Term: Pacific Life

Pacific Life
Average Monthly Cost
$47 (men); $39 (women)Based on average quotes for a 40-year-old with a 20-year term policy and $500,000 coverage amount.Average Annual Cost
$566 (men); $464 (women)Based on average quotes for a 40-year-old with a 20-year term policy and $500,000 coverage amount.
- pros
$3 million no-exam coverage limit available
Policy eligibility begins at age 18
Strong customer satisfaction ratings
consNo-exam eligibility restricted to ages 18-60
Limited term length options available
Pacific Life is the top insurer for no-exam life insurance in Maryland, with coverage amounts reaching $3 million through streamlined underwriting. This accelerated process eliminates medical exams for applicants aged 18 to 60, providing significantly higher limits than typical no-exam policies.
The company maintains solid financial footing with an A rating from A.M. Best and demonstrates customer focus through a low 0.08 NAIC complaint index. Terminal illness accelerated death benefits come standard at no additional cost. You can enhance coverage through optional riders, including child term protection, disability waiver of premium, and guaranteed insurability additions for future coverage increases.
- J.D. Power Rating: 657 (7th place)
- A.M. Best Rating: A
- BBB Rating: N/A
- Average NAIC Complaint Index: 0.08
- Term
- Universal
- IUL
- Variable Universal
- No-Exam
Compare Personalized Best Maryland Life Insurance Picks
To help you find the best life insurance fit, we've included a filterable table below that tailors recommendations to your unique profile, making your search simple and precise.
| Lincoln Financial | 16 | 208 |
| North American | 20 | 233 |
| Midland National | 20 | 233 |
| Protective Insurance | 21 | 259 |
| Assurity | 21 | 261 |
| Cincinnati Life | 23 | 274 |
| Pacific Life | 25 | 301 |
| SBLI | 25 | 301 |
| CoreBridge | 25 | 304 |
| Principal National | 25 | 305 |
| Legal & General | 26 | 307 |
| Foresters Financial | 26 | 315 |
| Securian | 26 | 317 |
| Guardian Life | 27 | 324 |
| Gerber Life (Fabric) | 28 | 326 |
| Columbus Life | 27 | 327 |
| Life Insurance Co of The South West | 27 | 333 |
| National Life Group | 27 | 333 |
| Equitable Life | 28 | 334 |
| Ameritas | 28 | 336 |
| Prudential | 28 | 346 |
| Mutual of Omaha | 30 | 359 |
| Ethos | 31 | 369 |
| AAA | 32 | 372 |
| Transamerica | 31 | 383 |
| Nationwide | 32 | 389 |
| John Hancock | 34 | 399 |
| Fidelity Life | 34 | 409 |
| Royal Neighbors of America | 42 | 516 |
Rates are based on a term life insurance policy for nonsmokers with average weight and health ratings. Individual costs will vary based on policy type and your profile.
Rates in this table may differ from those mentioned in the best companies' profiles. Main analysis uses averages for ages 30-49, while this table shows ages 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70.
How to Find the Best Life Insurance in Maryland
Here's a quick guide with top tips to help you secure the best life insurance in the Free State.
- 1Decide coverage beforehand
Finding out your life insurance coverage needs before purchasing is crucial. This allows you to compare prices fairly and avoid overselling by agents.
- 2Research costs for your profile
Reviewing average life insurance costs based on your specific coverage level and profile helps in assessing a good deal. Typically, your location doesn't impact life insurance rates.
- 3Compare company reputations
Rates are generally consistent across states, but a company's reputation in your area can offer a better fit. Use J.D. Power, online forums and independent agents to evaluate providers.
- 4Compare quotes through multiple avenues
Comparing quotes from various companies ensures you're getting the best value. Pricing may vary depending on where you obtain quotes, be it an independent agent, online source, or captive provider agent.
Best Life Insurance in Maryland: Bottom Line
We found the top life insurance companies in Maryland are Protective Insurance, Guardian Life, Lincoln Financial and Prudential. North American, Ethos, Legal & General, Mutual of Omaha and Pacific Life are the best options for specific policy types. While these are our recommendations, you should complete your own research, decide on a coverage level, and compare quotes to get the best deal possible.
Ensure you are getting the best rate for your insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.
Maryland Life Insurance: FAQ
Explore expert answers to common questions about life insurance in Maryland in our FAQ section.
What is the best life insurance in Maryland?
In Maryland, Protective Insurance offers the best overall life insurance, with top-rated nationwide customer service, affordable rates and robust life coverage.
How do you get the best life insurance in Maryland?
Finding the best life insurance in Maryland requires setting your coverage needs, then researching and comparing insurers' offerings and premiums for a well-informed choice.
Do life insurance rates differ by state?
No, life insurance rates do not vary by state, but coverage options and riders may be different.
How We Decided the Best Life Insurance in Maryland
We looked at three main things when ranking these companies: affordability (55%), customer experience (30%), and coverage options (15%). This weighting reflects what matters most when you're comparing policies. Your monthly premium impacts your budget, while reliable service and diverse options enhance long-term value.
We gathered quotes using a standard profile: a nonsmoker with average height, healthy weight, and average health rating. This baseline allowed us to compare rates fairly across insurers. We then modified profiles by age, gender, height, weight, tobacco use and health rating to capture rate variations for different customer types.
We used averages from the ages 30-49 quotes to determine overall rankings of the best life insurance companies in Maryland. When necessary, we identified data trends to calculate projections and extend coverage beyond original quotes collected.
Our analysis incorporated:
- Cost data from online quotes across multiple coverage amounts and term lengths
- A.M. Best financial strength ratings and years in business for stability assessment
- NAIC complaint index data and J.D. Power satisfaction scores for customer experience evaluation
- Online tools availability, payment options, and buying process ease
- Product diversity across term and permanent life insurance offerings
This methodology ensures our recommendations reflect real-world costs and experiences you'll encounter when buying life insurance in Maryland.
About Mark Fitzpatrick

Mark Fitzpatrick is a senior content director at MoneyGeek with over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, conducting original research and creating content that can be personalized for every buyer. He has been quoted on insurance topics in several publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Mark earned a master's degree in Economics and International Relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor's degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his economics and insurance knowledge to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.

